Phyllis Schlafly
A Conservative Force Shaping Modern America
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Biographical Overview
Foundational Identity
Phyllis Stewart Schlafly (nรฉe Stewart; August 15, 1924 โ September 5, 2016) was a prominent American attorney, conservative activist, and influential anti-feminist figure. Nationally recognized for her conservative social and political viewpoints, she significantly impacted American political discourse throughout the latter half of the 20th century.[1][2]
Academic and Early Career
Schlafly pursued higher education at Washington University in St. Louis, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree and membership in Phi Beta Kappa in 1944. She furthered her studies at Harvard University, obtaining a Master of Arts in government in 1945. Later, in 1978, she completed her Juris Doctor at Washington University School of Law.[11][12] Her early career included research for the American Enterprise Institute and involvement in political campaigns, such as Congressman Claude I. Bakewell's successful 1946 bid.[13]
Political Aspirations and Engagement
Schlafly made attempts at elected office, running as a Republican for the U.S. House of Representatives in Illinois's 24th congressional district in 1952 and 1960. Although she won her primary elections, she was unsuccessful in the general elections.[14][21] She consistently attended Republican National Conventions from 1952 until her death, demonstrating sustained engagement with the party's platform and direction.[18]
Key Activism and Influence
The "STOP ERA" Campaign
Schlafly rose to national prominence through her leadership of the "STOP ERA" campaign, a movement that successfully opposed the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) to the U.S. Constitution. She argued that the ERA would dismantle gender-specific privileges and protections for women, such as exemptions from military conscription and certain Social Security benefits.[33][34] Her efforts are widely credited with galvanizing opposition and contributing significantly to the ERA's failure to achieve the necessary state ratifications.[39]
"A Choice Not an Echo"
Her self-published book, A Choice Not an Echo (1964), became a pivotal text for the burgeoning conservative movement. This polemic supported Barry Goldwater's presidential campaign and critiqued liberal Republicans. Its distribution, reportedly over three million copies, significantly influenced conservative grassroots organizing and political strategy, particularly in California.[23][24]
Founding the Eagle Forum
In 1972, Schlafly established the Eagle Forum, a conservative political interest group. She served as its chair and CEO until her death, utilizing it as a platform to advocate for her conservative principles and mobilize activists across various social and political issues.[43] The organization played a crucial role in shaping conservative policy debates.
Core Viewpoints and Tenets
Traditional Family and Gender Roles
Schlafly championed traditional gender roles, positing that a woman's primary fulfillment lay in her roles as wife, mother, and homemaker. She viewed motherhood as the most socially valuable contribution a woman could make, arguing that the family unit was the bedrock of society and essential for raising responsible citizens. She contended that inherent differences between men and women were divinely ordained and not subject to societal redesign.[56][58][59]
Critique of Gender Equality Measures
She critically examined concepts like the gender pay gap, characterizing it as feminist propaganda designed to force women into the workforce and undermine motherhood. Schlafly argued that societal structures benefiting from men earning more than women were beneficial for maintaining the traditional provider role. She also opposed same-sex marriage and civil unions, viewing them as attacks on the traditional definition of marriage.[53][66]
Skepticism of Internationalism
Schlafly expressed significant skepticism towards international organizations like the United Nations, viewing them as threats to American sovereignty and national interests. She opposed U.S. military involvement in foreign conflicts, such as in Bosnia, arguing that American resources should not be used to police global disputes.[69] She also voiced concerns about globalization and proposed North American Union initiatives.[70][71]
Judicial Philosophy
A vocal critic of "activist judges," Schlafly argued for the impeachment of justices whose rulings she deemed contrary to constitutional principles. She specifically cited Justice Anthony Kennedy's vote to abolish the death penalty for minors as an example of judicial overreach.[73] She also advocated for appointing military veterans to the Supreme Court.[74]
Published Works and Media
Literary Contributions
Phyllis Schlafly authored or co-authored numerous books, covering a wide range of topics from national defense and child care to phonics education. Her most influential works include A Choice Not an Echo (1964), The Power of the Positive Woman (1977), and Feminist Fantasies (2003). She also maintained a syndicated weekly newspaper column through Creators Syndicate.[102]
Media Presence
Schlafly was a frequent commentator on broadcast media, providing analyses on news radio stations (WBBM), television programs (CBS Morning News, CNN), and hosting her own radio talk show, Eagle Forum Live. Her media engagements extended from the 1970s through the 1980s, solidifying her public profile.[43]
Enduring Legacy and Recognition
Academic and Cultural Impact
Schlafly's activism significantly influenced the trajectory of American conservatism and the women's movement. Her opposition to the ERA is considered a pivotal moment in 20th-century American politics.[32][41] In recognition of her impact, Washington University in St. Louis awarded her an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree in 2008, an event that sparked protests from students and faculty critical of her views.[87][88]
Portrayals in Media
Her life and activism have been depicted in popular culture, notably in the FX miniseries Mrs. America, where she was portrayed by Cate Blanchett. While the series garnered praise for its historical context, Schlafly's family and others have raised concerns about its accuracy.[104][105] She is also referenced in literary works, such as Margaret Atwood's novel The Testaments.[107]
Electoral History Summary
Schlafly's direct electoral history includes unsuccessful bids for the U.S. House of Representatives in 1952 and 1960. She also served as a delegate or alternate delegate to multiple Republican National Conventions, actively participating in the party's internal processes.[15][21]
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References
References
- Chip Berlet and Matthew N. Lyons. 2000. Right-Wing Populism in America: Too Close for Comfort. New York: Guilford Press, p. 202.
- Carol Felsenthal, The Sweetheart of the Silent Majority: The Biography of Phyllis Schlafly. (Doubleday, 1981).
- Donald Critchlow. Founding Mother-Phyllis Schlafly and Grassroots Conservatism: A Woman's Crusade, p. 422.
- Conservative just co-authored a new book". St. Louis Post-Dispatch, September 6, 2016, p. A13. Accessed September 17, 2023
- Official Vote of the State of Illinois -- Cast at the General Election, November 4, 1952, Judicial Election, 1951 Primary Election General Primary, April 8, 1952, Compiled By Charles F. Carpentier Secretary of State (1952)
- Official Vote of the State of Illinois Cast at the General Election November 8, 1952, Judicial Election 1959รขยย1960 Primary Election General Primary April 12, 1960, Compiled by Charles F. Carpentier Secretary of State
- Phyllis Schlafly, "Communist Master Plan for 1961", Cardinal Mindszenty Newsletter, February 15, 1961.
- The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, season 3, episode 7 "Marvelous Radio". Episode written and directed by Daniel Palladino. 2019.
- Official Vote of the State of Illinois Cast at the General Election November 6, 1956, Judicial Election 1955, 1956 Primary Election General Primary, April 10, 1956 Compiled by Charles F. Carpentier Secretary of State (1956)
- Official Vote of the State of Illinois Cast at the General Election, November 3, 1964, Judicial Election, 1963-1964 Primary Election General Primary, April 14, 1964, Compiled by Paul Powell Secretary of State (1964)
- State of Illinois Official Vote Cast at the General Election, November 5, 1968, Judicial Primary Election General Primary, June 11, 1968, John W. Lewis Secretary of State (1968)
- State of Illinois official Vote Cast at the General Election, November 7, 1972, Judicial Primary Election General Primary, March 21, 1972, Compiled by Michael J. Howlett Secretary of State (1972)
- State of Illinois Official Vote Cast at the General Primary Election March 20, 1984, Compiled by State Board of Elections (1984)
- State of Illinois Official Vote Cast at the General Primary Election March 15, 1988, Compiled by State Board of Elections (1980)
- State of Illinois Official Vote Cast at the Primary Election General Primary, March 17, 1992, Compiled by the State Board of Elections (1992)
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